At its core, stand-up comedy is a do-it-yourself industry. To get noticed, comics often have to produce their own shows or podcasts and tour the festival circuit. Few comedians emobody that independent, DIY spirit more than Cameron Esposito.

Aside from her long list of festival appearances — including Women in Comedy, SXSW and Bridgetown — Esposito has created her own opportunities. She launched The Feminine Comique, a beginner's course for women in Chicago that "strives to give female performers the confidence and skills they need to begin a career in standup comedy." Since moving to Los Angeles, she's become a favorite at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theater with her stand-up showcase, Put Your Hands Together. Every Tuesday at UCB, Esposito hosts an impressive mix of huge stand-up stars (Maria Bamford, Aziz Ansari) and new talent on the rise.